Original Greece Story

8/3/2019 Original Greece Story

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Where is it? thought Raissa while she was rummaging through herclothes. Today she was going to get her drivers license and she knewshe had to look extra special. She was worried, she has always hateddriving. Here she was 17 years old and about to take her drivers test.The rest of her friends had their licenses for more than a year.

She went towards the closet when she caught her reflection in thelong mirror. The girl staring back at her was no doubt beautiful; her tanskin looked amazing with her curly brown hair, which was now tamedby a tight bun in the back. Her small figure and long legs looked greatin her tight white shirt, purple mini skirt, and white high heels. She wasradiant, but there was something missing something that Raissacouldnt put her finger on. Her make-up was perfect so was her hair, nostrand out of place, what was it then? Realizing she was losing time,Raissa continued her search. When there was no sign of it, she wentdown the stairs to the dining room.

MOM! Where is my white jacket? Meredith sighed at her

daughters yelling and couldnt help but think where she went wrongwith her youngest child.

Meredith was a beautiful woman and no doubt took after her Irishheritage, her red hair and pale skin contrasts to that of her husbandand children. She was small but her wit and peacefulness was enoughto bring any man down.

I dont know dear, did you ask Leah?What did she lose this time? Alexander Diodorus came in to kiss

his wife and child. Alexander was tan and had blackish-brown hair. Hewas muscular even though his work allowed him little time to exercise,or even spend time with his family.

She lost her white jacket, no doubt to impress the DMV. Meredithsaid in her matter-of-fact tone.

A Diodorus doesnt need to impress someone! The Diodorus areconquerors! We excel in anything we put our minds to!

Obviously he didnt see my last report card Raissa couldnt helpthinking.

Alexander has always been very proud of his Greek heritage. He wasborn in Greece but moved when he was twenty when he found the loveof his life. She was an American and was quite beautiful. His parentswere furious when they learned of their sons marriage to thisAmerican woman. They demanded that he get a divorce but he

refused. He loved this girl named Meredith and could picture awonderful home, job, and children. They left Greece as soon as theycould, but Alexander never forgot his home and his family. He wasproud of being Greek but knew his calling was with this woman. Yearspassed and when the couple found out they were to have a babyAlexander wrote to his parents and brother. His brother wrote back,excited for him but his parents never did. Another year passed whenthe couple found they were going to have another baby he wrote to his


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parents again and nothing came back. He wrote dozens of times of thebirth date and gender of the babes. Even when they still gave no wordhe still wrote. Now twenty years later since he left he keeps on writingand he still gets no word. He asked his brother about it but his brotherrefused to answer.

When Alexander was done with his speech, Raissas older brothercame in.Hey, there was a party and I didnt know about it? Raissa knew

that Eudor would say something retarded like that. He has always beenthe funny one but no one besides her can see for what he really is,an over protective mini-father. Whats worse is that he looks just likeAlexander.

She was irritated that she was losing all this time; she wanted to bethere early so she can meet up with Julie at the mall later. She grunted,stomped her foot and went to find the maid.

Leah has been their maid for as long as Raissa could remember but

she never got over the mystical aura of the African middle-agedwoman. Raissa has always turned to her help when she was hurt or illbut couldnt explain why she was drawn to the woman.

She found Leah in the parlor vacuuming the rug. Once she sawRaissa, Leah turned off the vacuum.

Is there something I can do for you miss?Leah have you seen my white jacket, I need it for my drivers test

today.Oh is that today miss?Yes its today, now have you seen it?Patience dear, with a mind thats always on the go youll for sure

fail the test.Thanks for the encouragement.You know what I mean. If you keep your mind open and pay

attention to what you are doing, youll be fine. And you will not need asilly jacket to make sure you pass.

Thanks for the advice Leah, but Im not going to take any chances.So do you know where the jacket is or not. Leah looked disappointed,but Raissa did not have time to worry about why.

Yes miss I do believe its in the clean laundry thats in the washerroom.

Thanks Leah! Raissa said already heading towards the room.

Raissa grabbed the jacket and headed to the front door yelling,Mom, Im ready! Lets go! She half-walked half-jogged to the

Porsche, her high heels threatening to collapse with this unnaturalmovement. She gets into the passenger seat and waits for her mother.When she finally spots her mother at the door she noticed how muchshe changed over the past few months, she was beginning to get grayhairs and slight wrinkles; her eyes had dark lines under them but shestill looked so beautiful. Raissa found herself wondering if she was the


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cause of the grays and the wrinkles. She quickly brushed that thoughtaway,

Of course Im not the cause of it, Ive been acting like any otherteenage girl. What am I saying? Ive havent been acting like anythingat all. Meredith was now opening the drivers seat door, looking at

Raissa oddly then asking,Youre not going to drive to the DMV?No, I want to be calm when I take the test. Meredith had a feeling

Leah has been talking to her daughter.Alright, lets go. Meredith turned on the car and drove out of the

driveway.It was the perfect Beverly Hills Friday morning, the sun was shining

and there wasnt a cloud in the sky. You could really tell that thesummer is finally here. Meredith looked to her daughter and couldnthelp but wonder why she was so different. She seemed blocked offfrom her family.

I wonder who she gets that from Meredith thought. Out of both ofher children Raissa was the one that looked most like her, she wasntas tan as her brother and father but tan none the less, and Meredithdid see a couple of red strands of hair in that tight bun Raissa alwayswears.

Why does she wear her hair like that? If she left it down it will nodoubt make her prettier. Meredith thought about this while watchingher daughter when,

MOM! LOOK OUT! Meredith looked back to the road and noticedshe was on the wrong side of the street, with a truck coming righttowards the small Porsche. Meredith swerved to the right lane and

breathed a sigh. Raissa looked to her mother,What was that all about? Are you trying to scare me right before I

take the drivers test? Or do you just want to kill me and yourself?Im sorry, I didnt mean to do anything. I just got distracted. Raissa

rolled her eyes and sighed. Meredith looked to the road then back toher daughter when she noticed,

Youre going to wear high heels to your drivers test?Mom look at the road.I am, dont worry. Why didnt you wear sneakers? That would be

a more sensible. How can you drive with those big heavy things?Mom, I cant wear sneakers with my purple mini-skirt! I would look

ridiculous!Why wont you wear jeans or any kind of pants? Or perhaps, even,

a longer skirt? It must be tiring wearing those short skirts everydayalways worrying about people seeing your underwear whenever youbend down

Mom! Will you stop! I dress exactly the way I want to dress. I cantake care of myself. Raissa turned on the radio to hint that theconversation was over.


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Meredith felt terrible. She has never spoken that way to herdaughter before, though she has always wanted to. Raissa worried her;the way she acts is something of a depressed spoiled child. Meredithwas afraid of what her child might become.

She doesnt feel. She doesnt have a personality or freedom.

Meredith knew she had to do something, but what?When they reached the DMV Raissa looked to her mother,Do you think Eudor can come here, if I get my license, and take you

home and I can drive the Porsche to the mall to meet up with Julie?Meredith nodded. She knew this might be the perfect chance to talk toEudor about her concerns about Raissa.

Meredith waited for Raissa to see if she gets her license, eventhough she knew Raissa would pass. Raissa could pass anything if shewanted to. When Meredith saw her report card she knew then thatthere was something wrong with her child. She thought of Raissasbest friend Julie.

Julie was a wild girl; Meredith knew that from the first time she spentthe night at the Diodorus house. That night the two friends were foundsneaking in at 4am. Alexander and Meredith both talked to theirdaughter about the right influences but Raissa refused to yield to theirwarnings. Meredith wouldve demanded her not to see Julie again butAlexander said that would create even more of a problem. Julie hadblonde hair and was obviously beautiful, but she was also veryoutgoing, which meant she knew of many parties and boys.

Raissa then came out and showed her mom a thin card with herpicture on it. Meredith smiled and gave Raissa a hug,

Im so happy.

Did you call Eudor?Yes, right after you left. You know how he is, always late. Raissa

smiled a bit,Is it ok if I leave now? Im supposed to be there at 12.No, you can go ahead. Ill be fine. Raissa left her mother and went

to the Porsche.I cant believe I have my license Raissa thought while turning on

the car.Free to leave whenever I want, go wherever I want, do whatever I

want Raissa had a rush of excitement at the forbidden thought. Shesped to the mall anticipating Julies response to her news.

Eudor came not to long after Raissas departure. He saw Merediththen looked around,

Wheres Raissa?She left already.She left you alone? I cant believe she would do such a thing.

Its ok Eudor, she asked me first and I told her she could. Eudorwalked his mother to the BMW and opened the car door for her.


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Hes so caring, hes going to be a great husband and fathersomeday, Meredith couldnt help but thinking. Eudor went on once hewas settled into the drivers seat,

Still, she shouldnt have asked. She can be so thoughtless.Thats actually what I wanted to talk to you about.

Yeah? Eudor now started the car and was driving towards thehouse. Meredith continued,Raissa is worrying me. She doesnt have feeling, a personality. She

seems to only want to please her friends. She acts like theres nothingin this world except materials and social standing. She doesnt evenseem to notice anyone but her friends. I dont think she even sees usexcept when she wants something. She doesnt want to go to collegeand hasnt even begun to think about what she wants to do with herlife. I dont know what to do.

Shes needs to drop those good-for-nothing friends of hers.But we cant just forbid her to see her friends again.

Why not? Euro smiled.Eudor, Meredith couldnt help but laugh a bit. Then she said,Eudor I need youre real input on this, Im really worried.

I know mom, but what can we do? How do you get a person tofeel? I guess we could always put someone she loves in danger butthat seems a little too extreme, Eudor saw his mothers look andknew she was really worried. He never realized how much until thisminute he needed to help her and Raissa, but how?

Mom, I just dont know what to do. We need to get her away fromthose friends but how? We cant tell her to. But may be she wonthave a choice.

What are you saying?Remember when I was like 14 and I had to have all the name

brand stuff?Yes, but that wasnt anything like what Raissa is going through. All

kids go through the stage of wanting to have the in things. Raissasfuture and well being is in jeopardy. By this time Eudor pulled intotheir driveway and parked the car but neither family member moved.

I know mom, just here me out. When I was 14 dad took me withhim to Paris. Remember that? One day I saw a little girl not 2 yearsyounger than me with ratty clothes on. She was happy and I had noidea why. I studied her and thought how odd for a girl who obviously

has nothing be so happy. I saw her running towards someone sherecognized. When she reached him he picked her up and twirled heraround. The man was middle aged and was also poorly dressed, but hewas smiling wide too. Then a woman about the same age as the man,with ratty clothing, smiled wide and also hugged the child. I came tothe conclusion that this couple was the girls parents but I couldnt findout why they were so happy. I thought long and hard and still couldntthink of why. Then one day I sprained my ankle after falling down the


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hotel steps I remember dad running towards me full of worry andconcern and love. I knew then that you didnt need expensive clothesto be happy you needed love. And thats what Raissa needs to realizethat love is the only way humans can survive. Meredith sat thankful tohave such a wonderful and wise son. Then noticing that Eudor was

waiting for her to speak she said,That was a beautiful story Eudor. You are no doubt wise, which yougot from me. Eudor smiled at this and Meredith went on,

How are we going to teach Raissa that? Im sure she doesnt takenotice of anyone less fortunate, if there is any in Beverly Hills.

We could send her somewhere.Like where? You know she would have Julie come with her to

anywhere fun and she would refuse to go to any place that wasntfun.

Maybe we should ask dad. He knows of more places than us andcould probably help us.

Yes we should, oh Eudor youre a genius!I know. Meredith laughed and got out of the car. Eudor came outand walked his mother to the house. When they were inside he asked,

Where is dad?Oh you know, where he always is at work.What time will he come home?I dont know its always different. Hell call if hes going to be late

for dinner. Eudor looked at the clock it was mid-afternoon.Days sure has slowed down since school let out. Eudors college

let out a week before the high school. When Eudor first came hethought he just had to wait until the high school lets out so he can

have some fun with his sister but he was wrong. Its been four dayssince the high school was let out and he barely saw strand of hair.

I love the summer. Raissa said while sitting on a bench with herfriends. Julie sat up from her spot lying on the ground,

I love it too. You dont need to make up excuses for ditchingschool. Can you believe my parents were threatening to ground me?Ground me! Like they have time to make sure Im off the phone and athome. Clay, sitting on the other side of the bench from Raissa, said,

My parents grounded me once, they took away my car. I guessthey didnt notice the Mercedes gone during that time. Everyone

laughed. Raissa loved to hang with her friends they were so.Dominant like they owned the world.

That reminds me I bought a new car. Everyone groaned. Stevenbought a new car once every two months; the car dealership knew himby name. He sat on the floor wondering why his comment made such aresponse.

What is it this time? Julie asked.A Ferrari. Steven said straightening up a bit.


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Another one? You already have three! Raissa said.Not just any Ferrari, a Ferrari Enzo Ferrari. Its the most expensive

in the market.Oh, that changes everything. Leo spoke out; he was sitting in the

middle of Clay and Raissa.

Closer to me than Clay Raissa noted in satisfaction.Raissa liked Leo; he was handsome and fun to hang around. He wasblonde and French. Raissa loved his accent and his smell. His richcologne was obviously imported from Paris, and it lingered in her nose.

Raissa? Raissa looked up at the sound of Julies voice. She foundeveryone staring at her. She realized they must have been asking hera question,

Oh, sorry I wasnt listening. Julie rolled her eyes and repeated,I asked you if your parents bought you your own car yet.No, they said they wanted to wait until after I get my license.I guess they didnt think youll pass. Leos remark stung her more

than humored her. Raissa wondered why but she laughed anyway.Steven then said,Hey guys its 6, I guess we should split we need some sleep if

were going to that party.Oh Steven, have you ever heard of an all-nighter? Julie remarked.Oh, Julie, have you ever heard of a Saturday mass?Cant you skip it?Oh dear Julia it must be tough to be able to be so dumb when

youre not a blonde.Hey Leo chimed in.Sorry Leo. Steven said. Leo nodded then turned towards me.

Hey Raissa, can you take me home. I spent the night at Clays andyou live the closest to me.

Yeah, sure. Raissa tried to hide the excitement in her voice. Thegroup started getting up and saying a few last words before theyleave. Leo and Raissa then started for the car.

Raissa, Ive been thinking, I want to pick you up for the party.That was it, Leo had asked her out. Raissas face was burned she waswaiting for this for a long time. She smiled and then realized he waswaiting for her answer,

Ok. She tried to hide the anticipation and excitement from hervoice.

Raissa and Leo came to the car. Leo took the keys from Raissasaying,

Ill drive. And smiling. Raissa noticed his teeth werent that muchto see,

But everything else is enough to make any girl faint she smiled,remembering that they were now dating. She got in the car, she wasdisappointed that he didnt open the car door, Eudor always openedthe door for her and he was her brother!


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So he was never taught how to treat a woman, you cant count thatagainst him. The car was now driving off toward Leos house. Theymade small talk but didnt talk about anything notable. When theywere half way to Leos house, he put his arm around Raissa that madeher blush. She smiled and he nodded and smiled at her reaction to the

movement. Leo turned to his driveway. Raissa took sight of two largelion stone atop a brick pillar on both sides of the driveway.Leo came to a stop and turned off the car. He looked at her and said

one word,Tonight. He left then leaving Raissa to think upon the events of

the day. She moved to the drivers seat and turned on the car. Whenshe was drove out of the driveway she looked in the rearview mirrorand looked back at the house,

Tonight.

Alexander was starting to feel the closeness of the walls in the

parlor he couldnt believe what his wife and son was telling him.Youre saying you want to ship Raissa off to some foreign countryso she can learn obedience?

Not just obedience, consideration, respect, and love. Alexandercould tell his wife was very passionate over this ordeal, but Raissa isthe sweetest person he knows. She would never do any one of thingsthey have described. She might be a little spoiled but look at what shewas brought up in, its understandable.

No, she doesnt deserve that. Meredith looked to her son. Sheknew that Alexander spoiled his daughter and thought the world of her,but this is something that would help her. She had to try to reason with

him again,Honey, have you not seen her lately? Shes been completely

ignoring us unless she wanted something. And when she doesacknowledge us she is usually brief and angry, you saw her storm outof here this morning.

I know she is a bit spoiled but look at what she was raised in.Look at Eudor he was raised in the same environment as Raissa

and he is not spoiled one bit.Meredith, you are asking me to abandon my daughter which I

refuse to do!No, I am not asking you to abandon her; I am asking you to save

her future. Alexander could see Meredith as a lawyer, she would bequite good at it but he could not leave his daughter alone in a strangecountry. Just then the door opened, it was Raissa coming back from themall. The family could hear her about to go up the steps. Meredithcalled,

Raissa, can you please come here? Raissa did what she was told,For once Meredith thought. Raissa looked at her mother

expectantly. Meredith said,


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You missed dinner; I had Leah save you a plate. Raissa looked ather mother, wanting to get to bed so she can be refreshed for theparty.

I ate at the mall.Oh, alright. Did you have fun?

Yes, Raissa was curt, but she didnt want to be evaluated by hermother. Raissa continued,Mom, Im really tired Im going to head up and get some sleep.

Then she turned and left, without acknowledging her father or brother.Meredith sighed and sat on the couch. She looked to Alexander givinghim did you see that look.

She was tired. Meredith just kept on looking at him and Alexanderwas getting uncomfortable.

Ok, Ill talk to her about how she should treat us but that doesntmean were going to ship her off. He left then, leaving mother and sonto themselves.

Its ok mom, hell start noticing youll know hell be looking.Meredith nodded, hugged her son, and went upstairs. She wasexhausted and worried and tired of arguing. She fell asleep themoment her head hit the pillow.

Raissa lay in bed thinking of her mother. She fell asleep with thelast thought,

Why am I thinking of mother when I shouldnt be thinking ofanyone but Leo

Raissa woke up to a sound of a voice.

Wake up Raissa; I cant believe you over slept. How pathetic, whydidnt you just stay up? It was Julie and she wasnt happy. Raissaopened her eyes then and saw an outfit picked out for her.

Come on, get this on. Leo is going to be here any minute. Yourelucky I showed a little early or Leo would have left without you.

But how did you know? Raissa said with a yawn.Did you not think that he mightve asked me if you liked him or

not? You know guys usually ask their friends before they ask you.Raissa put on a black mini skirt and white tank top. She put on longboots that came right under her knee. When Julie saw her she screwedher face,

Theres something missing, but what? She looked around andfound a maroon sash,

Uh-ha, She took the sash and tied it around Raissas waist.Perfect. Julie then took to looking out the window to watch for theguys. Raissa looked in the mirror and made sure her bun was in perfectplace.

Raissa I see Clay and Steven coming, theyre my ride. I guess Ishould go, keep an eye out for. Wait a sec. I see Leo around the


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bend, lets go. She smiled to Raissa then climbed out the window.Raissa was next, both girls were skilled at this they have done itnumerous times. Walk down the slope of the roof to the gutter pole,then shimmy down the pole until you reach the ground. Going downwas easy, but up was a little bit trickier.

Once the girls were down they ran to the end of the driveway. Juliehopped into the backseat with Clay in Stevens convertible. ThenRaissa got into Leos Lexus. Then they were off.

Alexander was in his study contemplating what Meredith was tellinghim earlier when he heard a noise. It seemed to be something on theroof,

It must be the cat. Then he heard a faint sliding sound, thenfootsteps on the pavement. Alexander thought of that poor cat, it mustof fell three stories down.

With those footsteps, I guess those old folk tales about cats nine

lives were right. Now Alexander is a smart man, but he truly neverwould believe that either of his children would sneak out. He wentupstairs to his bedroom.

Meredith awoke to the sound of her husbands entrance. She sat upand heard him say,

Oh sorry dear, I didnt mean to wake you.Its fine, is the kids asleep?I havent seen Raissa since she went upstairs to her room and

Eudor went to sleep about an hour ago. You know I heard the strangestnoises from the cat.

What cat?Our cat, what was his name. Muffin?We gave that cat away a while ago.Oh, did we get a new one?No, we have no cats.Thats funny I heard the strangest sound on the roof, then a sliding

sound, then some footsteps Alexander was now walking out thedoor to the hall. Meredith started out behind him, wondering what thiswas all about. They passed Eudors room to Raissas room. Alexanderopened it to find no one there.

I cant believe it, I just cant believe it. Meredith at her husband,

Wheres Raissa?Those footsteps I heardShe sneaked out of the house. Eudor

then came, rubbing his eyes and trying to see what his parents wereseeing.

What is it? Meredith looked at her son,We think Raissa sneaked out of the house.What! What are we going to do? Go after her? Alexander

answered, still looking in the room,


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No, we wait.

Leo was now driving Raissa home. It was a great party; she dancedwith Leo practically the whole entire time. He now had his arm aroundher like the other day, but now Raissa was now right up against him in

the middle-front-seat. They stopped at the end of the driveway and heparked the car. He looked at her then to her lips. He kissed her then, arough kiss. He was like biting Raissas whole mouth,

So, hes not a good kisser, but hes still cute He released her thenand smiled. Raissa got out of the car and started walking up thedriveway. When she was about to turn to the pole, the front dooropened. It was her mother, hands crossed, not a good sign. She wasbusted. Meredith made a motion for her to come to her. When Raissagot to her, she started making an excuse but Meredith held up herhand, indicating to Raissa that she should stop. Meredith opened thedoor wider for Raissa to proceed into the house.

Raissa came to the parlor to find her father and brother alreadythere. Alexander made a motion for her to sit down, in which sheobliged, head down. Meredith came back in and sat with her husband.Raissa looked up and saw everyone looking at her. Alexander was thefirst to speak,

Where were you? Raissa felt no need to lie; she didnt drinkanything and knew her father will probably let her off with groundingor something of that sort.

I was at a party. She said. Alexander sighed and said,A party? Who were you with?Julie and a couple of other friends.

Please name them.Why does it matter?I need to know who had possessed you to sneak out of the house

like that! He was getting angry; Raissa knew she shouldnt do that soshe gave in,

Clay, Steven, and Leo. You saw them at my 16th birthday daddy.Dont daddy me; I am no mood to be lenient. Raissa looked down,Oh great. She couldnt help but think. She looked back up to her

brother; he seemed sodisappointed. She looked back when herfather started speaking again,

You have left me no choice Raissa. He started shaking his head.

What dad? Raissa braced herself for what she was going to hearnext, it might be as bad as spending a weekend at her AuntCassandras house in Utah.

Your mother, Eudor, and I have decided to send you to mybrothers house in Greece for the summer.

What!I called your uncle Nestor and he has agreed to take you on for the

remainder of the summer break.


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But. ButBut nothing! He was up out of his seat now, looking straight down

at his daughter,Your behavior has been intolerable! You act like nothing matters

except your friends and your materialistic lifestyle. At first we werent

going to allow something so extreme but these past events havechanger our minds. Meredith noticed her husband was taking herwords that she had said to him earlier, but didnt say anything. OnceAlexander stopped, Raissa said,

But dad, this summer is a three month summer! Theyve changedthe dates of starting school! I cant stay in Greece for three monthswithout my friends! I would most surely die! Eudor noticed she didntsay anything about missing her family, which made him want her toget even farther away from her friends. Alexander was angry overhis daughters rebuts. Meredith saw that, and came over to lay awarning hand on his shoulder. Alexander sighed and said,

Go up to your room. Leah will pack your things, youre leavingtomorrow.What! Tomorrow! I cant leave tomorrow! Thats too soon!Youre leaving for Athens in the morning and thats the end of it!

Raissa turned and stomped out of the room. Meredith looked to themen in her life,

Did we make the right decision, Im having second thoughts.Eudor came to his mother,

No mom, this is the best way. Uncle Nestor is a smart man hellknow what to do. Meredith was comforted by his words, but not fullyconvinced.

Raissa was on the verge of tears.I will never see Leo until the next year, and hell be in college!

Raissa fell on her bed and cried herself to sleep.It was still dark when Eudor woke Raissa.Raissa, its time. Raissa rubbed her eyes; she looked down at

herself and found herself in a nightgown. She thought,Someone must have changed me in my sleep, at least someone

cares about me Eudor gave her another nudge, telling her to get up.Raissa finally got herself out of bed. She looked at the clock, 6:08.

Eudor told her that her flight leaves at 8. Raissa put on her usual miniskirt and tank top with a white over shirt, then her make-up and highheels. She was ready to go. Eudor and she went downstairs to findtheir parents already at the door. Raissa noticed the tears that werestreaming down her mothers face. She went up to her father; he gaveher a hug, in which she did not return. He whispered still hugging her,

Im sorry; youll learn why we are doing this during the summer. Ipromise. He let go then, and she moved to her mother. Meredith


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embraced her daughter as if she was going to die. Raissa found herselfwrapping her arms around her mothers waist, she just couldnt help it.Meredith, like her husband, started whispering in Raissas ear,

Oh dear, I love you, never forget that. I dont want you be mad atany of us, we just want whats best for you. Raissa then escaped from

her mothers embrace, to her brother.Have fun, and try not to think of this as a punishment. Think of itmore as a vacation, alright? He hugged her then, and Raissa huggedhim back.

Are you alright miss? The flight attendant asked Raissa.Yes, Im just a little jittery; I dont like planes that much.Would you care for anything, something that may make your flight

more comfortable? Its a long trip to Greece.No, thank you.Well if you think of anything just ask. Raissa nodded, and in all

truth she was very used to plane trips, she just didnt want to tell theattendant what she was really feeling. Why did her parents send heraway? Her father said shell find out, but she wanted to know now. Thewhole ordeal made her sick with anger and annoyance. Dreading thefuture, Raissa fell asleep.

Miss? Miss, you have arrived. Raissa found herself looking at theflight attendant she had last seen.

Its time for the first-class passengers to exit the plane. Raissalooked around and saw other passengers getting their belongings.Raissa nodded to the attendant and stood up. Her legs faltered a little

under her weight, its been so long since she had stood. Raissa got hersmall white book bag and left the plane and entered the airport.

Whoa, where did all these people come from! hundreds if notthousands of people were scattered everywhere. Some were sitting,others walking, some even running.

How am I going to find someone I never met in all this? She stoodcompletely lost.

Well I might as well get my bag. Raissa started searching for thesigns that pointed her to the baggage claim, she was thankful that shewas in a major tourist city, for the signs were written in English to notjust Greek and other languages she was not sure of.

She found her bags, though it took her a whole lot of pushing,studying, and reaching. Raissa noticed the heavy weight as soon asshe picked them up,

What did Leah pack in here! She pulled until she reached to thepoint when she couldnt anymore, which was right in the middle of thechaos. People sped by her in every direction. Raissa was worried,

Where am I? Help me! Right then a man came by her and took oneof her bags, she yelled,


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Hey stop! You stole my bag! The man turned around. Thats whenRaissa noticed that he wasnt old in any way shape or form. He washandsome with a tan and curly brown hair. He smiled as if heraccusation was amusing. Raissa was now very angry; she didnt likepeople who found her amusing when she was angry like this, especially

from a guy who was stealing her suitcase, no matter how handsome hewas!Excuse me; I did not say anything funny! You are stealing my bag

and I have the right to call the authorities if you do not return it to meat once! Then Raissa thought may be this man did not know Englishso she said,

Do. YouSpeakIngles? She drew out her words long and saidthe Spanish word for English, she didnt think he would understandSpanish either but she tried it anyway.

The man smiled even widely at this. Raissa was getting angrier, shewent up to the man and he stopped laughing when he saw how mad

she was,I apologize; I didnt mean to anger you. I speak English. Raissaliked his voice; it had an accent and was very nice. She wiped thatthought away a soon as it hit her brain. She was mad at this man; hemade her look like a fool.

You better give me my suitcase back! If you could understand meearlier then you heard what I said, the authorities is just one phone callaway! He smiled a bit,

And what is it may I ask?Itsum. Raissa didnt think about that. If there was an emergency

at home she would call 911, but she didnt think there was a 911 in

Greece.Miss. Diodorus, yes I know who you are. I am Demetrius-Calisto but

you can call me just Demetrius, My employer told me to pick you uphere, I believe he is your uncle, Nestor Diodorus? Raissa stoppeddead; she knew her face was burning red.

Do not be embarrassed on my part, Miss. Diodorus. I shouldvethought of how it might be on your part, having a strange man takeyour bag without an explanation. I would have resorted to the sameconclusion if I was in your position. The mans words were comfortingand her face was starting to cool down.

Come this way, we need to get out of the way. I have secured a taxi

for us. Raissa followed Demetrius out side; it was so dark.It must be some time past 9. They came to the taxi and Demetrius

put her bags in the trunk. She noticed how easily he carried them,He must be very strong, Raissa couldnt help but think. He opened

the taxi door for her and she got in. She realized this man, for she hasnever met until today, had opened the door for her where as Leo didnteven think upon it.


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Hes European, all men here are courteous, they were taught thatway. Raissa felt terrible for thinking higher of Demetrius than Leo, herboyfriend.

The car door on the opposite side of Raissa opened and Demetriuscame in, interrupting her thoughts. He said something in Greek to the

driver and the car started moving. He then looked at her and said,I hope you like it here in Athens. It is a beautiful city. You shouldexplore it. I assure you it would not be a waste of time. Just do not goalone, understand? He was talking to her like a father would to achild.

He thinks of me as a child! He can not be more than 2 years mysenior! Raissa looked out the window in annoyance. She heard himsay,

I have offended you? She whirled on him,Yes! You have offended me! You think me as a spoiled child!May I ask how you came upon that conclusion by my words?

Do you not think I can take care of myself? I am 17 years old not8! Demetrius stayed calm and never once had his voice rose,Miss. Diodorus, it is the reason why you are 17 that I give you word

of caution. Men here can be scoundrels, if you are not careful you canget hurt, or worse. He did not elaborate on the worse but Raissahad a pretty good idea of what it may be.

Raissa was again as embarrassed as she was in the airport. No onehas ever left her speechless like this. It had taken Raissa completelyoff guard. Demetrius noticed the silence and tried to change thesubject,

Your uncle is a very kind man. Have you ever met him?

No. Raissa was still very upset and embarrassed but wantedDemetrius to know that she wasnt so easily brought down.

Well, youll like him. He looks a bit like you. He makes wine, did youknow that?

No. Raissas annoyance for this man grew; she did not want to talkto him but she let him continue.

We grow olives and grapes it is a wondrous sight. The area is sogreen. You see your uncle doesnt exactly live in Athens he lives a littleout someway. Dont worry tis not too far. Raissa nodded then turnedto the window, as much as she didnt want him to think she can bebrought down easily, she just did not want to continue talking to this

man who just a few minutes ago embarrassed her. Raissa didnt like tofeel small in any way. And embarrassment was something that madeher feel small.

Raissa watched as the taxi drove through the city to a more ruralsetting. He pulled into a dirt driveway. Raissa was disappointed, whenDemetrius was telling her of her uncles business she expected a richsetting. The taxi pulled up to a small two-story house that looked morelike a building you would find in Mexico not Athens!


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Demetrius paid the driver and got Raissas bags from the trunk.Raissa watched the taxi leave and realized she was there, in Greece forthree months. Raissa turned around and saw a man coming out fromthe house that looked almost exactly like her father. He saw them andwalked towards them.

Welcome to Athens! I am your uncle Nestor. I am so glad you couldjoin us for the summer, Raissa. I hope Demetrius was a good guide.Raissa looked at Demetrius and said to her uncle,

Yes, I have never met anyone better. She was being sarcastic butNestor didnt sense it. He had a heavy Greek accent, unlike Demetrius.Raissa was wondering about this when her thoughts were interruptedby Nestor saying,

Wonderful. Demetrius can you bring the ladys bags to your room.Raissa was confused,

His room?Yes, Demetrius was kind enough to give up his room for the lady

while she is here. Nestor nodded to her. Demetrius was already offtoward the house. Raissa asked,Where will he sleep?In the attic. Nestor then saw the slightest bit of sorry on Raissas

face. He said,Do not trouble yourself, the attic is very comfortable and

Demetrius is no doubt been in worse. Raissa was concerned but didnot want to know anything else about this man. She followed her uncleinto the house. She was met by a woman about the same age as heruncle. The woman had blonde hair, obviously not Greek, with averagebuild. She came up to Raissa with open arms and a big hug saying,

Oh this must be Raissa! I heard so much about you! I am your AuntRene. Raissa noticed the different accent. Rene let go and smiledeven widely,

You have to meet your cousins! They will be delighted to see you!She ran out the back door. Raissa looked to her uncle,

I didnt even know I had an Aunt.Has your father not told you?I rarely see my father, he is always working or I am with my friends.

We dont get a lot of time to talk.Ah, well I have two girls, Belle and Anne. Belle is 12 and Anne 15.Belle and Anne, they dont sound Greek.

Thats because theyre French, like their mother. Raissa nodded inunderstanding when her Aunt Rene came back in with two new girls.The smaller one, who Raissa believed to be Belle, was a brunette withshort hair. She wore a white t-shirt, jeans, and boots. Her sister lookeda lot more like her mother. She had long blonde hair. She was fullygrown and was beautiful. She also wore jeans and boots but her shirtwas small and low-cut. Raissa was about to think how awful of Anne to


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wear a shirt that shows that much cleavage, when Raissa took sight ofher own low-cut blouse. Aunt Rene said,

Raissa, these are my girls, Anne and Belle. Raissa looked at themand nodded, saying,

Nice to meet you. Rene smiled then saw Raissa still carrying a

bag, and said,Oh dear you must be exhausted. Anne, would you please showRaissa to her room? Anne smiled and nodded, giving Raissa the signalto follow. Anne led her up the stairs to a small room.

This is Demetriuss room but youll be staying in it until you go.She said it like she was irritated. Raissa said,

Did I offend you?No, of course not. Raissa could tell she was lying, but didnt say

anything. Anne left the room without another a word. Raissa lookedaround and studied the room. It was small indeed probably 10-10. Thebrass twin bed was in the far left corner. The blankets were old but

made-up. There was a dresser on the right with framed pictures on it.Raissa started walking towards it when she tripped on her luggage.Demetrius must have left it here. Raissa thought. She continued to

the dresser and found photographs of a young couple; the mother washolding a baby.

There was a thump at the door. Startled, Raissa looked up anddropped the photograph on the floor. The glass broke from the impact.Raissas face burned for the third time, each time in front of the sameman. Raissa said,

Im so sorry. She went to her knees and started picking up thebroken glass. She took a step with her knee, slicing the knee with an

unseen piece of glass. Raissa let out a soft scream. Demetrius pickedher up and set her on the bed. He then kneeled down to study thewound. It was bloody, the sight made Raissa nauseated. Raissabreathed and tried not to look at the wound. She said,

Im sorry. I didnt mean to drop it. Demetrius looked up at her andsaid,

It is alright. It wasnt the frame that was important to me. Raissanodded,

Is, um, those people your parents?Was. He was putting something on the wound. It stung, Raissa let

out another soft scream. Demetrius started blowing on the wound. The

cool sensation seemed to flow over Raissas whole body, she shivered.Demetrius put on a band-aid. Raissa studied his handiwork and said,

Thank you. He smiled a bit and nodded. He then went to the glassand began to pick up the remainder of the glass pieces. Raissa beganto have a new respect for him. Once the mess was cleared, Demetriustook hold of the picture and brought it to Raissa. He sat next to her onthe bed and lowered the photograph so they both could see the photo.


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My father and mother died not to long after this picture was taken.They were Demetrius was interrupted by a knock on the door.

Am I interrupting anything? It was Anne. She was smiling butRaissa could see through that, she was really angry and perhaps a bitjealous. Raissa shook her head at the thought. Why would she be

jealous? Demetrius probably told her already about his parents.Demetrius stood up and left, without giving Anne another look.But Anne was looking at him Raissa couldnt help but notice.

Raissa stood up also and smiled to Anne, she turned around and left.Not very nice is she. Raissa laid down in the bed and fell asleep

without even taking off her high-heels.

The next morning Raissa woke up to the sound of footsteps.Who in the world gets up this early?! She looked at the clock it

read 9 am, later than she thought. The sun was bright, Raissa grunted.She stood up and stretched. Her feet hurt; she looked down and

realized her high-heels were still on.Perfect, just what I need. She sat back down on the bed andtook off her shoes. The high-heels made an imprint on her foot. Nowbare foot, Raissa walked to her suitcase. She opened it and what shesaw caught her completely by surprise. The clothes were not hers.

What? No, this can not be happening! She looked at the tag andyet it had her name on it. Confused, Raissa started rummaging throughthe various jeans, long skirts, t-shirts, and blouses. These weredefinitely not hers. While she was going through the strange clothesshe heard a crackling sound. It was a letter! It was from her mother,

Dear Raissa,If you are reading this then you must be in Greece. I hope you enjoy

your trip. I hope you can forgive us for sending you away like this but we

thought it might be for the best. Try to have fun; you are in one of the most

beautiful places on earth so it shouldnt be that bad. You must be wondering

why you dont recognize the clothing. Well, Leah and I both thought you

should wear less revealing clothing, something, perhaps, more comfortable.

Please do not be mad, this is only for the best. Always remember that we

love you and this all will be over soon.

Love,Mom

Thanks Mom. Raissa said sarcastically. She looked down again atthe tan band-aid, then at the suitcase. She sighed and took hold of along skirt.


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Raissa looked at her reflection. The white fluffy skirt went down toher knee, but barely covered up the wound, but it looked good on her.She did find a pink tank top that went well with the skirt.

And the sandals are a little more comfortable than the high heels.Raissa thought reluctantly. She turned around and went down stairs to

the kitchen. She found her Aunt Rene preparing breakfast.When Rene saw Raissa she couldnt believe the difference. Shethought,

What a difference. She is so beautiful, if only she take down thathair. She noticed that she was staring at the girl and said,

Good Morning, Raissa you look splendid today. Raissa smiled a bitat this, and then sat down on a stool. She put her arm on the counterand rested her head on her arm. Rene went on,

I hope you like eggs. Raissa nodded, she was very tired.Are you alright dear? Rene asked. Raissa knew she had to

answer,

Im fine; I just didnt know anyone could be up this early.Oh, and I guess the jetlag doesnt help much, does it? Raissalaughed a bit and nodded. Her uncle Nestor then came in followed byBelle. Belle said to something to her mother in Greek and her mothersaid,

Belle honey, we are not going to talk in Greek as long as Raissais with us. We will have no secrets from her or make her feeluncomfortable in any way. Raissa was about to say that it wasntnecessary when Demetrius came in. Rene looked up and said,

Ah, Demetrius can I beg you to stay for breakfast? Demetriuslooked at Raissa and said to Rene,

There is no need to beg. He smiled and Rene answered,Wonderful, now we just need Anne to get up. Belle, can you

wake up your sister? Belle nodded and went toward the direction ofAnnes room. Nestor said to everyone,

Shall we go to the dining room? Raissa got down from her chairand followed Nestor and Demetrius to the dining room, Rene stayedto finish the breakfast. The room was not as elegant as the dining roomat her house, but it was neat. The table was square and had 6 chairsaround it. The room itself was small and only held the table and chairs.

Demetrius pulled out a chair for Raissa to sit in. Raissa sat andDemetrius sat across from her. Nestor sat in his seat at the front of the

table. He said to Raissa,So how is your father these days? Raissa answered,Working, as always. Nestor nodded,Alexander was always one for his work. He paused and started

smiling. Raissa waited for him to go on.I recall a memory when we were just young boys. We went out

fishing and our father told us to bring back 20 fish no matter how largeor small. We went out and waited for hours and there wasnt so much


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as a nibble. It started to rain, but Alexander would not go back without20 fish, no matter how much I begged. Nestor started laughing a bit.He was interrupted when Anne and Belle came in.

Anne was not dressed to impress, her hair was in tangles andshe was still dressed in her night gown. When she looked up and saw

Demetrius she ran from the room. Raissa couldnt help thinking,Could she be anymore obvious? Raissa smiled, Anne wasamusing. She could never picture Anne with Demetrius it just didnt fit.Raissa started thinking of Leo,

Will he write? Of course hell write, but when? Is he missing me?Belle sat down talking in Greek to her father. Rene came in then andlooked confused. She asked Belle,

Where is your sister going? Belle didnt really listen she wasjust staring at the food Rene was carrying. She said,

I dont know. Not taking her eyes off breakfast. Rene shookher head at her daughter then set the food on the table. She said,

Well, can you please get your sister so we can start eating?Belle grunted and left the room. Rene took her spot, opposite herhusband. Then looked at Raissa and said,

How did you sleep last night dear?Fine. Raissa was tired and really didnt feel like talking. The

thoughts of Leo made her remember the anger she felt about cominghere. Rene noticed the change and turned her attention to Demetriusand her husband.

Whats on the agenda today? Nestor was pouring himself somejuice that was on the table. He answered,

I was thinking I could show Raissa around. He looked to Raissa,

expecting an answer. She said,Ok. Raissa saw Demetrius look on her with disapproval. He did

not like her answer. Nestor exchanged glances with his wife, readingeach others thoughts. Belle came in then with Anne asking,

Can we eat now? She plopped down next to Raissa. Anne satnext to Demetrius, staring at him all the while. She made a hugeimprovement; her red dress was tight with a plunging neck line andher hair brushed down.

Rene answered Belles question,Of course we may eat. I hope next time we may be more swift

in getting here. She giggled and nodded toward Nestor. Raissa was

about to dig in when Belle took her right hand and Rene took the left.Raissa looked around puzzled. She saw the family bow their heads andclose their eyes.

Oh, theyre praying! Raissa followed suit and Nestor prayed,Heavenly father, we thank you for the wonderful meal you have

blessed us with, and for our guest to share it with. Amen. Everyoneraised their heads and passed out the food. Raissa thought the wholebreakfast was weird. She had never had a family breakfast, lunch, or


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dinner. And she hasnt prayed or gone to church in who knew howlong!

The food was amazing, which made her think of Leah. Leahalways made wonderful meals that made Raissas mouth water, butshe hasnt tasted Leahs food in ages. She usually grabbed a bite to

eat with Julia and the guys.

Original Greece Story

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Transcript of Original Greece Story